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Maui is the second largest island in Hawaii and caters to travelers who want to spend days exploring the scenic coastline, learning about the island's ecosystem, and visiting the small towns and attractions scattered throughout the island. When planning travel to Maui, travelers need to consider the peak and slow travel seasons, transportation options and activities available for a well-rounded itinerary.

Travel Season

Travelers who plan a trip outside of peak season can secure the lowest rates on hotel and resort accommodations, vacation rentals and some water sport activities. Peak season in Maui is from December 31 to March 1, according to Action Sports of Maui, a company that offers surf packages and surfing lessons. Airfare also might be cheaper from April to December.

The Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau states that the average temperature is between 75 to 85 degrees F year-round, and trade winds help to maintain a comfortable temperature. Travelers can expect warmer and drier weather between April and November, and cooler weather between December and March.

Transportation

Kahului Airport (OGG) is Maui's primary airport and accommodates both inter-island and overseas flights. Travelers who cannot find a direct flight to Kahului Airport should consider flying into Kapalua Airport (JHM) or Hana Airport (HNM), two of the island's commuter airports, or Honolulu International Airport (HNL). Travelers arriving at Honolulu International Airport on Oahu can take a ferry, helicopter or short charter flight to Maui. Travelers will find several shuttle, taxi, tour bus and public bus transportation providers throughout the island.

Attractions

When planning an itinerary for a trip to Maui, travelers can explore a variety of attractions that showcase the island's ecosystem, cultural traditions and history, and that provide information about the aquatic life around the island. Maui also boasts several beaches and state parks bordering the ocean. Key attractions include Haleakala National Park, Iao Valley State Park, the Pacific Whale Foundation, Maui Ocean Center, Makena State Park, Banyan Tree Park and the Hana Coast Gallery.

Accommodations

Maui has accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. Travelers can choose from luxury resorts that offer on-site activities and events exclusively for guests, budget-friendly hotels, moderately-priced chain hotels, locally-owned bed and breakfasts, and condo or vacation home rental properties. There is one resort in Hana, and several resorts and hotels scattered throughout Kapalua, Kaanapali, Kihei, Lahaina, Makena and Wailea.

Tours and Adventures

Maui caters to adventure enthusiasts, animal lovers and travelers who want to learn about the area's cultural history with several tour options. Travelers might consider booking a cave adventure package to explore the historic caves in Hana, or head out on an ultimate rafting adventure in Lahaina for an afternoon of whale watching off the coast. Other tour and adventure packages include para-sailing, surfing, art gallery tours, eco-tours, guided nature hikes, glass-bottom boat tours and submarine excursions.

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About the Author

Sabah Karimi is a professional Web and print copywriter. She specializes in several niches including travel, fashion, beauty, health, fitness, lifestyle and small business. Karimi has an educational background in business administration and marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

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